2019 BMW i3 Improves Range to 153 Miles, Up From 114 Miles

Published: October 9, 2018 | By: American Luxury Staff

BMW recently introduced its upcoming 2019 i3. What’s new for the EV’s new model year?

Most notably, an increased electric range. A few tech and design updates also grace the nimble-looking, eco-friendly car, but an EV’s range is its simplified numerical valuation, and the i3’s increase of nearly 40% constitutes the major news for the 2019 model; the outgoing version featured a 114-mile range, and the new iteration is expected to surpass 150 miles on a full charge.

A new high-voltage 120Ah battery cell is behind the boost. But more efficient battery design keeps the cell weight about constant despite the car’s improved potential, and the 2019 i3 is only four pounds heavier than the 2018 model, despite the power increase.

Drivers will enjoy increased efficiency of the two-cylinder gasoline motor with a range extender as well, so a bit of wallet relief is in the cards when it comes to those occasional stops at the old-fashioned pump. However, the zero-to-60 mph time remains the same: 7.2 seconds for the i3, and 6.8 seconds for the i3s.

Additional changes include optional automatic high beams and LED swiveling headlights. Inside, riders will benefit from the iDrive 6.0 infotainment system—complete with Wi-Fi—that comes standard.